The Saudi Film Commission has increased its cash rebate program from 40% to 60% of eligible expenditures, making it one of the most competitive film production incentives in the world. The announcement was made by Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Qahtani, CEO at Marche du Film during the 79th Cannes Film Festival.
Saudi Arabia increases film incentives by 60% to attract global productions
The update goes beyond the headline rate increase. It also introduces accelerated disbursement processes, increased cash flow efficiency for production companies and a new model for managing and distributing incentives developed in partnership with the Cultural Development Fund.
Speaking to Variety, Al-Qahtani said, “Today’s announcement wasn’t just that we’re increasing the discount to 60%. We want to be not only the most generous incentive, but also the most proactive.”
In a formal statement he said, “We are focused on developing an integrated ecosystem that enables filmmakers to work with confidence, empowering the private sector and attracting quality investments that contribute to transferring expertise and knowledge to local talent.”
Majid bin Abdulmohsin Al-Hugail, CEO of the Cultural Development Fund, said, “Today, the speed and clarity of processes have become key factors shaping production and investment decisions in the global film industry. Through this program, we aim to provide a more efficient and flexible experience that meets the needs of projects at different stages and strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a reliable partner for international productions.”
Saudi Arabia’s cash rebate program was first launched in 2021, following the reopening of cinemas in the Kingdom in 2017 after a 35-year ban.
